Team Coordinator
Dennis Martin
360 Ag Hall
405-744-5419
Team Administrator
Dale Maronek
360 Ag Hall
405-744-5415
Research and Extension Priorities of the Turfgrass Initiative Team – Version 2008 (Dec 20, 2007):
Research Priorities:
1. Development and screening of turfgrasses for improved turf performance and environmental adaptation to both biotic and abiotic stresses.
This research initiative is two-fold, involving 1. the generation of turfgrass varieties having improved performance traits as well as 2. the evaluation of experimental and commercially available varieties from industry for improved adaptation to biotic and abiotic stresses. The focus of the turfgrass development effort will likely be the improvement of turf bermudagrasses. Expansion to include other species may occur as opportunities arise.
2. Development of environmentally sound turfgrass management practices.
Research is needed to develop and improve upon management practices that will further enable turf to provide the desired aesthetic and functional benefits to end-users while minimizing negative impacts on the environment.
3. Assessment of the pest management research needs of Oklahoma’s turf production and maintenance industries.
Research is needed to ascertain information from turf industry stakeholders concerning pest management needs. Additionally, research is needed to develop a Turfgrass Crop Profile for our state at the Southern Region Pest Management Center http://www.sripmc.org/rese_profiles.cfm. A Turfgrass Crop Profile for Oklahoma does not exist currently.
4. Further investigate and develop environmentally sound yet efficacious and affordable alternatives to conventional turfgrass pest management practices.
An expanded research effort is needed that goes beyond classic IPM methods into alternatives that include, but are not limited to, varieties with improved pest resistance, biocontrol methods, mechanical control methods, and cultural control practices. Pests can include but are not limited to insects, diseases and weeds.
5. Documentation of the current economic impact of Oklahoma’s turfgrass production & maintenance industry.
There is a lack of research-based information regarding the size, scope, economic impact and employment numbers associated with Oklahoma’s diverse turfgrass industry. This lack of current data inhibits the Team’s ability to respond to the turfgrass industry’s needs as well as hinders our turf industry leaders in the areas of sales and service. Decision makers at all levels cannot make informed decisions concerning the industry’s needs without adequate research-based information concerning the importance of the Oklahoma turfgrass industry.
Extension Priorities:
1. Development of resources for educating clientele on selection of turfgrasses with improved environmental adaptation to both biotic and abiotic stresses.
The most frequent informational request to the state turfgrass extension office from both home consumers and professional turfgrass managers historically has been for turfgrass species and varieties that have improved adaptation to specific environmental stresses.
2. Development of resources and transfer of information on environmentally sound turfgrass management practices.
Educational resources are needed that can convey practical/useful management information that results in turfgrass stands that deliver high visual and/or functional quality while minimizing environmental impacts.
3. Assessment of pest management educational needs of Oklahoma’s turf production and maintenance industries.
The second most frequent informational request to the state turfgrass extension office from both home consumers and professional turfgrass managers has historically been for pest management information. The frequency of the requests for turf pest management information warrants a detailed survey into the specific informational needs of the turfgrass management industry. Additionally, research-based information is needed in order to develop a Turfgrass Crop Profile for our state at the Southern Region Pest Management Center.
4. Educational resources are needed that offer more environmentally sound yet efficacious and affordable alternatives to conventional turfgrass pest management. These pests can include but are not limited to insects, diseases and weeds.
Producers and end users of turfgrass products need current information about preventative tactics to manage turf health problems before they develop as well as rescue tactics that do not negatively impact the environment nor pose a risk to people, pets, or wildlife.
5. Development of educational resources documenting the economic impact of Oklahoma’s Turfgrass Production & Maintenance Industry.
Materials are needed to educate and inform turfgrass industry personnel as well as decision makers concerning the size, scope, economic impact and employment numbers associated with Oklahoma’s diverse turfgrass industry. Only after this information is generated, disseminated and implemented into the general knowledge base will end-users and leaders be able to make informed decisions that positively impact the public and turfgrass industry.